E300d air flow issues

[94.300td]

When I tried to get an air filter for my E300d estate, the local car part shop had to order it in, when it arrived it was rectangle, approx 22cm by 35cm, the one in the car is 22cm square.

O.K. there is another shop in Market Harborough so I got them to order one in, again, it was the big one, "no others listed" It needs changing and it could be affecting fuel economy...

Also there appears to be black grease accumulating in the alloy air intake tubes which I had off to do the glowplugs, like fatty deposits in an artery, the car has done 200k but I've never seen this before, could this be affecting fuel economy... I'm getting mid thirties to the gallon but I've heard 40 is possible.

I have an idea to use a lifetime guaranteed K + N filter and can get one for £50 but it's the 35 by 22cm one, would swapping the filter housing with another E300d be feasable?

Any ideas on the black grease?

Regards, Dylan

 

[Parrot of Doom]

I don't know about the air filter, other than to suggest that you visit the dealer and order from there - its more or less the same price, and they'll be able to tell you exactly what you need, and if your filter box is the correct one.

I wouldn't recommend K&N filters, I'd stick with the original part.

Mine has the fatty deposits too, mechanic said lots of them are like that.

 

[malcolm E53 AMG]

Try Euro Car Parts, Freemans Common Leicester. When buying spares for MB its better to use specialist suppliers like Euro Car Parts, KMS or GSF. Alternately, depending on the part, the MB dealer.

 

[Bolide]

94.300d

Easy stuff, this:

Buy the filter from a dealership. It'll fit and cost about £12

The black gunge is the product of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) setup and is normal. Clean it out if you want to, and clean the inlet manifold & butterflies at the same time

Some report an increase in MPG after this but I wouldn't expect a 300 multivalve auto to get more than 33 mpg unless you drive it very carefully & cruise at around 60. Driven as normal (thrashed) you'll get 30 MPG +/-. Mid thirties is great - I'd expect less

What is this obession with buying parts at motor factors??? Just buy from the dealer - in general parts are not expensive and you know they'll fit


Nick Froome
www.w124.co.uk